Allowing a computing device to operate in a demo mode and a consumer mode

Abstract

Systems and methods for a demo mode for a computing device are disclosed. In some implementations, a computing device receives a first input for entering a demo mode. The computing device prompts, in response to the first input, for a user input indicating whether the user wishes to place the computing device in the demo mode. The computing device receives the user input indicating that the user wishes to place the computing device in the demo mode. The computing device enters the demo mode responsive to the user input indicating that the user wishes to place the computing device in the demo mode. Entering the demo mode includes adjusting battery settings of the computing device.

Description

BACKGROUND[0001]Oftentimes, customers like to examine and play with computing devices, such as tablet computers or mobile phones, before purchasing the computing devices. Playing with the computing devices allows the customers to become familiar with the computing device(s) and their feature, and may make them more comfortable with the purchase decision. In this connection, computing device retailers often have “demo” computing devices in their stores. These “demo” computing devices may be special ordered demo mode devices from the manufacturer, which repeatedly play a video showing key applications and features of the computing device. These demo devices may not be suitable for retail sale to a customer, as they may have demo software in place of customer software. As a result, retailers waste money on purchasing demo devices, which cannot be resold to customers. As the foregoing illustrates, a new approach for providing “demo” computing devices, which would allow demo computing de...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The patent text describes a system for allowing retailers to provide "demo" computing devices to customers before they make a purchase. These demo devices can be re-sold or returned to the retailer for use as a demo device. The system uses special order devices from the manufacturer that can play a video showing key features of the device. The devices can also enter a "demo mode" where they can be used for a limited period of time. The technical effect of this system is that it allows for more efficient use of retailer space and reduces the need for special order devices.

Problems solved by technology

These demo devices may not be suitable for retail sale to a customer, as they may have demo software in place of customer software.

As a result, retailers waste money on purchasing demo devices, which cannot be resold to customers.

If the user does not enter any input in response to the prompt, the computing device may lock and not allow any other changes until the user enters an input responsive to the prompt.

As a result of the frequent charging, the battery may be damaged.

If the computing device is plugged in and the battery is not being charged, power for operating the computing device may be consumed from the charging station.

When the computing device is connected to the charging station not being charged, the computing device may consume power for operating the computing device from the charging station.

The computing device may consume power from the battery upon determining that the power from the charging station is insufficient.

The computing device consumers power from the battery upon determining that the power from the charging station is insufficient.

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